Finally Found That Job? Start It Off Right

Remember: Enthusiasm and Manners

Even if you're in a stopgap job you only took because your unemployment ran out, a cheerful "Good morning!" and chewing with your mouth closed goes a long way. You may not be working in the Oval Office, but charming co-workers and customers from day one is still important.

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Damage Control in the Workplace

With any luck, you just might keep the position for eight years.

This work is the opinion of the columnist and in no way reflects the opinion of ABC News.

Michelle Goodman is a freelance journalist, author and former cubicle dweller. Her books — "The Anti 9-to-5 Guide: Practical Career Advice for Women Who Think Outside the Cube" and "My So-Called Freelance Life: How to Survive and Thrive as a Creative Professional for Hire" (October 2008) — offer an irreverent take on the traditional career guide. More tips on career change, flex work and the freelance life can be found on her blog, Anti9to5Guide.com.